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Date:  11-6-2007
Number of Hours:  1.00
Manual Reference:  
Brief Description:  Initial Ideas

This is my first entry into what I hope is a detailed and valuable log of my first experience in home built aircraft. I plan on building a Vans Aircraft RV-7. My decision to build this aircraft over other kits available is based on many factors. I have some metal fabrication experience from building truck bodies years ago in Detroit. Since my workspace is in the basement of my home, composites and the associated odors would be a problem.

My initial ideas are to build a night VFR/ light IFR aircraft. I seldom fly solid IFR, but would like the legal capability to file IFR to get through layers if necessary. An auto-pilot with altitude hold is a must. I plan on using glass primary flight displays with glass engine intruments/monitors. As of today I would use the Dynon units as info is interchangeable between the displays. Since I will be 99% VFR and have a Garmin 496, I plan no round dial backup. I have been flying glass displays on transport class aicraft for over 10 years now and have never had to use the round dial backup.
Between the rate-based autopilot, Garmin 496 and more than likely VFR conditions, the additional weight, cost, and uneliability of round dials just doesn't make sense to me.
I plan one good NAV/COM, more than likely the Garmin SL 30, with an ICOM handheld backup.
I have yet to decide on the auto-pilot, but will not scrimp on this.

Power will be in either 160 or 180 HP fuel injected. I have a lot of time flying injected engines and am sold on the much more precise method of delivering metered fuel to the cylinders. Fuel injected engines are not hard to start once you know how!! I will be using an aircraft engine on my aircraft!

I like the simplicity, cost and weight savings of a fixed pitch prop. The performance gained by using constant speed is just not worth it to me.

I love the look of the conventional gear airplane! I do have a considerable amount of tail wheel time and plan on the dragintail configuration. I like the prop clearance offered as I will be operating from some
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one car garage and eaa bench

one car garage and eaa bench

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2nd workbench completed

2nd workbench completed

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grocery store shelving installed

grocery store shelving installed

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